Meet the Owner Handler Addison Lancaster

Meet the Owner Handler Addison Lancaster

1. How were you first introduced to the sport of purebred dogs? To your breed?

Addison Lancaster: I started showing dogs when I was five years old. My grandmother showed dogs and got me involved in the sport. I currently show a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (GBGV), GCH Sidekicks Courage Of The North At Crossroad. I co-own “North” with Laurie Green, Jody Paquette, and Brent Humphrey. In July of 2024, I reached out to Jody about acquiring a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen (PBGV) as a Junior’s dog. She had a GBGV that needed a job, and that is how I acquired North.

2. How many years in dogs? In your breed?

Addison Lancaster: I have been involved in the sport for 10 years. I have had Affenpinschers for eight years and just recently acquired the GBGV.

3. Do you attend show handling classes? Have you attended in-person handling seminars?

Addison Lancaster: No, I have not attended any classes.

4. Have you found virtual learning tools to be helpful? Videos? Websites? Social Media? AKC Canine College?

Addison Lancaster: Videos can be helpful. I have learned by watching others, and working for handlers such as Jody Paquette and Lexy Jessee.

5. Do you compete in the National Owner-Handled Series? Are rankings important to you?

Addison Lancaster: I used to compete in Owner-Handled, and rankings were very important to me, but as I started to show young dogs and assist handlers, I stopped showing in Owner-Handled.

6. In which class(es) are you most likely to enter your dog(s)?

Addison Lancaster: I enter my dogs in Best of Breed and Junior Showmanship.

7. Who have been your mentor(s) as an Owner Handler?

Addison Lancaster: Jody Paquette has been my mentor.

8. What are the benefits of competing with your breed(s) as an Owner Handler?

Addison Lancaster: I enjoy competing with a breed that not many people have.

9. How are you encouraging new exhibitors to participate in the sport?

Addison Lancaster: Have fun with your dog. It’s not always about winning.

10. Are there any suggestions you’d like to pass along about the presentation of your breed(s).

Addison Lancaster: GBGVs can be stubborn, so I would suggest to anyone getting involved with the breed to not constantly fight them.

11. What are your goals as an Owner Handler? Is there a victory that has eluded you?

Addison Lancaster: I would say a goal I would really like to achieve on North, my GBGV, would be a Best in Show. Winning the Breed at The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show with a GBGV, and an Affenpinscher, is an accomplishment that I worked very hard for, so those were goals accomplished.